News and Events Archive 2009

Tyler Goes Red for Heart Health

February 6, 2009

On Friday, February 6, the hospital celebrated Go Red for Women Day by encouraging all employees to wear red. Most of the time, selecting clothing isn’t all that important. But on Wear Red Day, it is important – very important.

Here are the facts: Cardiovascular Disease is the number one killer of American women; it is the cause of one in every three female deaths. Fortunately, these statistics can change and by participating in Wear Red Day, participants help to build awareness. Wearing red encourages women to make a promise that they will do everything possible to reduce the risk factors for developing heart disease.

Here are the simple steps recommended by the Go Red for Women to reduce risk:

Get regular checkups.
Know your blood pressure and cholesterol numbers.
Follow your doctor’s recommendations for diet and exercise.
Take prescribed medications as directed.
If you smoke, quit now.
Get at least 30 minutes of moderate physical activity each day.
Eat a heart-healthy diet, including fruits and vegetables, whole-grain foods and fish.
Limit food high in saturated fats and dietary cholesterol.
For average Americans, limit your salt intake to 2,300 mg of sodium a day.
If you drink alcoholic beverages, drink in moderation — an average of no more than one drink a day for nonpregnant women.

January Employee of the Month

February 2, 2009

Some people have jobs that are fairly easy to describe, but others, like Pamela Shields, administrative assistant to Tyler President and CEO, Denise Gieski, have a little more difficulty creating a one-line job description.

Ms. Shields came to Tyler nine years ago after spending six years at, what was then, Commonwealth Telephone Company. Recently married and ready for a change, the 1990 graduate of Hanover Area High School, spotted an ad for the Tyler spot and was hired by CEO Bill Milligan in 2000.

Her responsibilities include clerical and administrative support for Ms. Gieski, the hospital’s Medical Staff and the Board of Directors. She serves on the Credentials Committee, which, as she describes it: “Makes sure the docs are who they say they are and can provide the services Tyler needs and wants.”

When a physician applies for privileges at Tyler, Ms. Shields oversees the process by verifying his or her education credentials, work history and licenses in various states. She also investigates all professional references and board certifications. In 2004 she became a Certified Provider Credentialing Specialist (CPCS and holds two associate degrees from Luzerne Community College: one in Human Services and the second in Business Administration.

“I love my job; no two days are ever alike, so it’s always interesting,” she offered. Thriving on new challenges, Ms. Shields especially likes finding ways of helping others and creating more efficient systems, like getting the hospital’s Policies, Physician Privilege List and the Disaster list online for easy access.

One of Tyler’s biggest cheerleaders, Ms. Shields said that she feels lucky because she gets to come to work each day with her extended family. “Tyler is a nice place to work. You are not just a number or another employee,” she explained. “Because we are small, we have to work as a team and we become a part of each other’s lives,” she added.

“Ms. Shields, husband, Eric and son, Zach, have all been patients at Tyler. “I am so grateful for the quality of care and kindness we each received,” she recalled. “When Zach was sick, I knew he was in good hands. Our lab, x-ray, the emergency department and nurses are all so professional and provide that personal touch that makes you believe that everything is really going to be ok,” she added.

“Pam is extremely efficient and organized and makes my life so much easier,” explained Ms. Gieski. “Because she is so knowledgeable about Tyler, she helped make my transition to CEO very smooth. “But,” Ms. Gieski emphasized, “the best thing about having Pam work with me is the special gift she has for anticipating what I need even before I know I need it. She is really wonderful at her job,” she noted.

In addition to her official duties, Pam serves on the Employee Activities Committee, which coordinates the Employee Recognition Dinner and the Holiday Dinner Dance hosted by the Medical Staff. She chairs blood drives at the hospital, oversees the Toys for Tots collection at Tyler each year, organizes wine tours a few times every year for employees and their families and proofs the monthly employee newsletter, the Tyler Times.

“I’m a terrible delegator,” she confessed. “I work well under pressure and don’t let deadlines bother me,” she said. “And I’m very organized, although you wouldn’t know that by looking at my desk,” she quipped.

In her spare time, the Springville resident enjoys spending time with her husband and five-year-old son, Zach. “I love watching him experience the world,” she said. “He is so inquisitive and I am constantly amazed as to how much he is learning every day.”

But they also are careful to carve out time each month to be alone. “My parents watch Zach one weekend a month for us and we take short day trips just to getaway from responsibilities and reconnect as a couple,” she said. “My parents love having him and it is a real gift for us.”

In the summer, the family participates in a neighborhood volleyball league and spends time with friends and family in the family pool.

The Tyler Employee of the Month receives $100, a special parking spot and is eligible to be named Employee of the Year in April of 2009.

February Employee of the Month

March 2, 2009

Judy Abrams, Tyler Memorial Hospital’s February Employee of the Month effortlessly combines all the qualities of a valued employee with the comforting characteristics of an old friend in one dynamic package.

Described by her Department Manager, Worthie Keifer, as a “hard worker who knows her job,” Ms. Abrams juggles the myriad of tasks involved in running the hospital’s storeroom as easily as the most experienced juggler – and never drops the ball.

In her nomination, Fay Henry, Ms. Abrams’ colleague and friend, listed some of Ms. Abrams’ responsibilities: “Judy handles inventory, ordering, courier service, shipping and receiving – plus a variety of behind-the-scenes jobs,” Ms. Henry said.

But Ms. Abrams seems to thrive on the diversity of her day and enjoys being physically active. “I love my work; no two days are ever alike and I’ve met a lot of interesting people and made some very good friends here,” explained the 21- year, Tyler veteran.

Originally hired as a housekeeper, Ms. Abrams explained that she can’t predict what each day will hold. “Every day I make a run to the post office and do other errands, which can include stops at the bank, the grocery store – whatever is needed. One day I even delivered dentures left behind by a patient,” she recalled with a smile.

Devoted to her husband Larry, a technician at P&G and their son, Larry, 24, a graduate of Keystone College, the family built a new house in Eaton Township last year, which they share with Larry’s fiancé, Shelby, and her daughter. “My husband and son are best friends and did a lot of the work themselves; we all pitched in,” she said. “It’s our dream home.” The family started the work in October of 2007 and moved into the new home in February of 2008.

Number 12 of 13 children, the Scranton native is always cheerful and ‘seems to be everywhere in the hospital at once,’ said a co-worker.

In her spare time, this whirling dervish of activity, enjoys an occasional golf game and reads, as she describes it, ‘anything in sight.’ But her real passion is her family, which is telegraphed by her wide smile whenever she talks about their accomplishments and time spent together. The family is planning a trip to Virginia this summer. For this special lady, there really is no place like home.

The Tyler Employee of the Month receives $100, a preferred parking spot and is eligible to be named Employee of the Year this April.

Tyler Places Hold on New Emergency Department

February 26, 2009

Denise Gieski, president and CEO of Tyler Memorial Hospital announced today that the Capital Campaign launched last year to raise funds to build a new emergency department for the Tunkhannock hospital has been temporarily suspended.

"In spite of significant commitments from many private sources and the enthusiasm of our community, employees and medical staff to support this endeavor, the major funds we hoped to receive from federal and state governments do not appear to be available in the near future," Ms. Gieski explained.

Citing a recent report by the Hospital Association of Pennsylvania (HAP) that indicated the current economic crisis has resulted in 48% of Pennsylvania hospitals planning inpatient renovation projects were either canceling or placing these plans on hold and 54% of facilities which hoped to begin new outpatient projects this year were also delaying or canceling construction.

With strong support from State Senator Lisa Baker and Representatives Sandra Major and Jim Wansacz, 6.25 million dollars was allocated by the state legislature for the almost 16 million dollar project, but the money has not been released by the Governor, according to Ms. Gieski.

"And, in light of Pennsylvania's own fiscal position, we don't expect that state governments will be in a position to release those funds in the near future," she added. A request to the federal government for an additional two million dollar grant was significantly reduced in committee.

"This turn -of - events has left us reluctant to go to the community for capital funds since we no longer have a realistic timetable for when the project will resume and we don't want to create the expectation that something will be happening right away. But I do want to emphasize that the project is on hold - not cancelled," she noted.

To read more click on the link below.

ER Expansion On Hold

Seven scholarships offered

March 31, 2009

The need for new physicians, nurses and other clinical specialists is growing each year -especially in rural areas, such as the region served by Tyler Memorial Hospital, Tunkhannock.

To help address this shortage and to encourage and support young people of the region planning a medical career, a total of seven scholarships will be offered through organizations and individuals associated with Tyler Memorial Hospital.

The Tyler Medical Staff is offering four $500 scholarships. To be eligible, applicants must be planning to pursue a degree within the healthcare field and be either:

a Tyler employee
the child of a Tyler employee or
the child of a member of the Tyler Medical Staff

In addition, the Wyoming County Medical Society is offering two $500 scholarships to students planning to pursue medical careers.

Also being offered again this year is the Kay Wilson Memorial Scholarship. This $100 scholarship is awarded to a graduating high school senior planning a career in healthcare. Kay Wilson, RN was a longtime nurse at Tyler. The scholarship is awarded in her memory each year by her family.

Applications for all seven scholarships are available through both the Tyler Nursing Office and the Tyler Human Resources office. The deadline for applications is April 30, 2009. For information on any of these scholarships, please contact Jill Smith at 996.1105.

Scholarships Available

The MEDICAL STAFF OF TYLER MEMORIAL HOSPITAL is offering four $500 scholarships this year. To be eligible, the applicants must be planning to pursue a degree within the healthcare field and be:

a Tyler employee
the child of a Tyler employee or
the child of a member of the Tyler Medical Staff

Applications are available in the Human Resources and Nursing offices. The deadline to apply is April 30, 2009. For information, please contact Jill Smith at (570) 996-1105 or Ext. 105.

Click here to download the Medical Staff of Tyler Memorial Hospital Scholarship application

NEW SCHOLARSHIP

The WYOMING COUNTY MEDICAL SOCIETY is offering two $500 scholarships this year. To be eligible, the applicants must be planning to pursue a degree in the healthcare field and be:

a Tyler employee
the child of a Tyler employee or
the child of a member of the Tyler Medical Staff

Applications are available in the Human Resources and Nursing offices. The deadline to apply is April 30, 2009. For information, please contact Jill Smith at (570) 996-1105 or extension 105.

Click here to download the Wyoming County Medical Society Scholarship application

The KAY WILSON MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP

This $100 scholarship is awarded to a graduating high school senior planning a career in healthcare. Only the children or grandchildren of current Tyler employees are eligible for this scholarship.

Applications are available in the Nursing, Public Relations and Human Resources offices. The deadline for applications is also April 30, 2009. For information, please contact Gladys Bernet at Ext. 301.

Click here to download the Kay wilson Memorial Scholarship application

Lower Wyoming County Tyler Auxiliary Spring Egg Sale

March 31, 2009

The Lower Wyoming County Tyler Auxiliary is once again bringing some Easter cheer - and maybe some cash - to Tyler Memorial Hospital, Tunkhannock. Many employees and visitors have been buying eggs in the anticipation of finding $25 or a lottery ticket that could be worth as much as $500 tucked inside. Taking a chance recently was Rebecca Swartz, dietary who bought an egg from Joan Brown, auxiliary member. According to Joan, the group hopes to raise $750 to benefit the hospital.

March Employee of the Month

March 31, 2009

The first thing you notice about Lisa Meeker, Tyler Memorial Hospital’s March Employee of the Month, is her passion for living. The second thing you discover is why.

Lisa enjoys her job as a Medical Technologist at Tyler, a position she has held for five years. “I love helping the doctors and nurses care for our patients - and the people I work with are wonderful,” she said. But mention her beloved horses and the 37 year old lights up like the Fourth of July.

As a child, Ms. Meeker dreamed of being a veterinarian, but the almost decade long schooling required prompted a switch to a career in nursing. She attended LCC, but left with just one semester to go. “My mom was not happy with me then,” she recalled with a smile. “I found it difficult to leave the patients behind at the end of the day,” she explained. “I felt like I needed a big shut-off button for my feelings and I knew nursing wasn’t a good fit for me.”

Searching for a profession in the healthcare field that would give her an opportunity to help people, but without the emotional intimacy of nursing, she settled on medical technology. In 1999 she earned a BS in Medical Technology with a minor in Chemistry from Misericordia College. Following graduation, Ms. Meeker worked at various facilities before eventually settling happily on Tyler’s evening shift.

Spring Oberbeck, RN, in her nomination, praised Ms. Meeker for her gift of kindness – especially to children and for going above and beyond the expectations of her job. Cathy LaRue, laboratory manager, said: “Lisa is always helping someone, both in the lab and throughout the hospital. She is excellent with patients and is a good technologist.”

Married for nine years to husband, Don, an assistant controller for American Asphalt, the couple own the 20-acre, First Step Horse Farm in Lake Township, where they care for four horses, three dogs, three cats and 16 chickens – plus tend a vegetable garden Ms. Meeker planted with the help of her grandfather.

“My animals are my kids; I live for my animals,” she emphasized, eyes sparkling. Ms. Meeker gives riding lessons, western style and trains horses in ground manners. “I cater to backyard horse people,” she laughed. “Ideally, I like to work with the horses and owner together; it helps them bond. In the near future, the couple plan to add horse boarding for vacationing owners to their services.

Caring for her menagerie is time-consuming and expensive. ‘I have three horses with allergies and the medications run into the hundreds of dollars,” she said. “But they are worth it.” She recited the horses’ facts as a mother would spin off the names and ages of her children: Jaden, 6, was a fourth anniversary present from her husband; Ernie, 15, Jack, 24 and Snip, 22 round out the little family. Like any wise mother, Ms. Meeker claims no favorite among the quartet: “I love them each for different reasons,” she added diplomatically.

Born in Wilkes-Barre and raised in Plains, Ms. Meeker has a brother, John and three step-bothers, Austin, Tyler and Ryan. A sister, Kelly, died at age 18. She attends Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Church and spends as much time as she can with her grandfather.

Upbeat and full of energy, Ms. Meeker credits her husband’s ‘huge support’ in caring for the farm and the animals. “He is absolutely the best farmhand ever and helps me so much,” she said.

Praise is also offered for her co-workers at Tyler. “The people on the second shift are wonderful,” she said. “Everyone helps each other and we enjoy one another; it is really like a family here at night. Nursing, Housekeeping, Security, Radiology – we all work together and we have each other’s backs – that’s a nice feeling, I really couldn’t be me without their patience and support,” she concluded.

The Tyler Employee of the Month receives $100 and the use of a preferred parking space. Monthly winners are candidates for the Employee of the Year, which will be named in April.

The Mehoopany Auxiliary Makes Donation to Tyler

March 2, 2009

The Mehoopany Auxiliary of Tyler Memorial Hospital, represented by Irene and Walter Reinmiller, present a check for $1,500 to Denise S. Gieski, president and CEO of Tyler Memorial Hospital. The auxiliary raises funds to support Tyler through regular Bingo games, Basket Raffles and other events.

Tyler Prepares For Possible Swine Flu

April 28, 2009

Preparations are underway at Tyler Memorial Hospital, Tunkhannock for an event that the hospital hopes it never has to face – Swine Influenza. “The hospital is erring on the side of caution,” noted Carol Berry, Tyler vice-president of nursing. “Even though we are not anticipating an outbreak in our area, we decided to be proactive be prepared for any eventuality,” she said.

Members of the hospital’s staff are holding ongoing meetings to assess the rapidly changing status of the influenza in Pennsylvania and the nation. The Pennsylvania Department of Health is also starting to prepare for a swine flu outbreak that has the potential to become a global pandemic. The CDC, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, reported, that as of Tuesday, the state had no confirmed cases of the disease. So far over 150 deaths have been confirmed in Mexico and 68 deaths have been attributed to Swine Influenza in the United States.

Serving on the hospital’s preparedness committee are representatives from the Medical Staff; Infection Control; Laboratory; Nursing; Pharmacy; Emergency Department; Housekeeping; Maintenance; Purchasing; Administration and Public Relations’ departments.

According to Kathryn Ritter, infection control manager, the Emergency Department and Lab have already received education concerning proper screening and diagnostic procedures. “We want to be ready to meet any possible challenges,” Ms. Ritter said.

Here are some steps you can take to reduce the spread of swine flu if it does impact our region:

Stay home if you suspect you are sick.
Practice regular and thorough hand washing. The use of hand sanitizer can replace hand washing, unless hands are visibly dirty.
Cough or sneeze into the bend of your fabric-covered elbow or use a tissue and properly dispose of all used tissues.
Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
Stay healthy by eating a balanced diet, drinking plenty of water and getting plenty of rest and exercise.
Seek care if you have influenza-like illness.

Tyler advises persons to see a physician or visit an emergency department if the following symptoms are present: Severe respiratory symptoms accompanied by a fever above 100 degrees; intense muscle aches; sudden onset of fatigue; contact with a person with confirmed Swine Influenza or travel to areas with confirmed cases of human Swine Influenza.

Tyler will keep the community updated of any changes in the status of the disease in our area. For more information on Swine Influenza, visit www.cdc.gov/swineflu

Kristin Dudley, Tyler May Employee of the Month

May 09, 2009

Kristin Dudley, the Tyler Memorial Hospital May 2009 Employee of the Month is a study in quiet, kind efficiency. Ms. Dudley started as a Registration Clerk at Tyler almost five years ago at the urging of her mom, Debbie Traver, who worked at Tyler at the time. Successful in the challenging position of Registration Clerk, Ms. Dudley went on to hold a variety of positions within the Business Office including: Switchboard Operator, Evening Billing Clerk, Geisinger Billing Clerk and finally, Medicare Billing Clerk. Now, as the Lead Billing Clerk for the hospital, most of her time is devoted to assigning outpatient billing tasks to others and helping her colleagues with problems and questions about billing issues.

In their nomination letter, Diane Grasso, her colleague and Kathe Bartron, her manager, wrote: “Kristin’s commitment to Tyler’s mission is evident in every aspect of her job performance. Kristin is reliable, experienced and flexible and brings a positive attitude to every task she takes on. She is patient and friendly and she educates in a way that allows others to fully understand the scope of the assignment in an easy to absorb and user-friendly manner.”

“I really like every part of my job,” Kristin said. “I especially like all the great people I work with and I appreciate everything that everyone I ever worked with now, or in the past, has done to help me,” she added. Gayle Gipson, education director, in a second nomination of Kristin, also emphasized Kristin’s excellence in customer service. “I have witnessed Kristin go out of her way to help a visitor or a family member of a patient who needed assistance. I think she should be recognized for a job well done,” Gayle added.

Respected as good problem solver, Kristin said that her job calls for a lot of listening. “Sometimes you have to really listen to hear what the problem is when working with a caller,” she explained. “I try to build a rapport with our patients and let them know that I am on their side and that I really want to help them solve their issue.” Kristen explained that if you listen long enough, you can usually get to the real problem. The oldest of four children, Kristin is married to husband, Keith and is the mother of five-year-old, Ethan. The busy young mother enjoys spending time with her family in their Washington Park home. Kristin also gets to spend a little time with family while at work. Her sister, Nicki is the hospital’s Switchboard Operator. Her younger brother Kyle and sister, Jerri, live at home with their mom.

As for the future, Ms. Dudley’s original dream of becoming a nurse has given way to a new dream of building a career on the business side of healthcare – a dream she is well on her way to realizing. The Tyler Employee of the Month receives $100, a preferred parking space and is eligible to be named Employee of the Year.

Advice on Swine Flu From the Centers for Disease Control

April 28, 2009

The swine flu outbreak appears to have killed 100 people as of this date in Mexico and caused mild illnesses in the United States.

"At this point we do not have any confirmed cases of swine influenza in Pennsylvania, but we remain in constant communication with health officials at all levels," said Health Secretary Everette James. "We are committed to keeping our health care providers, local health agencies, and the public informed as this situation develops."

Swine influenza A/H1N1 is a new strain of influenza that has not previously been detected in swine or humans. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the virus has been confirmed in five locations in the U.S. - including New York and Ohio - as well as Canada and Mexico. To date, all U.S. cases were "mild" with only one person requiring brief hospitalization.

People rarely got swine flu before the current outbreak, and usually only if they were in very close proximity to infected pigs. However, during the current outbreak, the virus is able to spread from person-to-person. It is still safe to eat pork and pork products.

Symptoms of swine flu in people are similar to those of regular flu and include fever, lethargy, lack of appetite and coughing. Some with swine flu also have reported runny nose, sore throat, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. There is no vaccine available at this time, but the swine flu can be treated with certain antiviral drugs.

Persons with swine flu are contagious for up to seven days or longer after the onset of illness, so it is important to take the following steps to prevent spreading the virus to others:

Stay home when you are sick to avoid spreading illness to others;
Cough or sneeze into the bend of your elbow or a tissue and properly dispose of used tissues;
Wash your hands frequently and thoroughly with soap and warm water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer;
Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth; - Stay healthy by eating a balanced diet, drinking plenty of water and getting plenty of rest and exercise; and
Seek care if you have influenza-like illness.

The CDC (web | news) is asking individuals who have a recent history of travel and experience mild, flu-like symptoms to stay home. Those who feel their symptoms worsen or become severe could call or visit their health care provider. For more information on Swine Influenza A/H1N1, contact the Department of Health at 1-877-PA-HEALTH or visit www.health.state.pa.us. Source: Pa. Department of Health

Mercy Health Partners, Tyler Memorial To Study Merger Feasibility

April 21, 2009

In a joint statement, President & CEO of Tyler Memorial Hospital, Denise S. Gieski and the President & CEO of Mercy Health Partners, John M. Starcher, Jr. announced that their respective boards have approved investigating the feasibility of a merger between the two healthcare providers. Mercy is part of Cincinnati-based Catholic Healthcare Partners, the sixth largest non-profit healthcare system in the United States. The formal collaboration will be initiated by a mutual due diligence process which should take between 90 to 120 days to complete.

Hospitals across the country are faced with declining reimbursements for services, aging physical plants and limited capital funds for replacement of technology and upgrades to their facilities. Joining resources often creates efficiencies both in the use of resources and in delivery of services. Community hospitals like Mercy and Tyler Memorial usually form consensus early on that they owe it to their respective communities to actively collaborate, discovering ways to enhance community health.

“Tyler Memorial Hospital is a vital component of Northeastern Pennsylvania’s healthcare delivery system,” said John Starcher, Mercy president. Adding, “Tyler has deep roots in the communities they serve throughout Wyoming County. This due diligence process allows each hospital time to look at the array of services offered to our communities and discover creative ways to better serve the people who rely upon each facility for their medical care.”

A merger may allow for sharing healthcare resources in ways that lift up the level of care in each hospital. These resources may even include physicians and professional staff.

Denise Gieski noted that Mercy and Tyler Memorial are in discussions because Tyler felt that Mercy may well be the best overall fit as the hospital sought ways to thrive and prosper within Wyoming County. “Our goal is to find the best method of deploying healthcare resources so our patients can benefit. Ideally, patients will be treated at appropriate levels in their own hometown and still be able to take full advantage of speciality services at neighboring facilities.”

Both Mr. Starcher and Ms. Gieski concurred that maintaining an independent hospital is increasingly difficult. They also agreed that delivery of modern healthcare demands ongoing collaboration to continually maximize a community’s limited resources.

Tyler’s own Mission Statement points to a clear community mandate toward collaborations like this. "To create a healthy community by providing patient-focused healthcare, wellness, and education services."

Mr. Starcher noted too that Tyler’s motto - "Caring for our community...one neighbor at a time" also poses a responsibility that providers take a long-term view of their commitment to providing community healthcare. “That commitment,” he said, “while dealing with the present, must look boldly into the future and plan for our children and their children’s healthcare. In the final analysis, that is what the communities we serve expect of us. We look forward to this process and to working collaboratively with Tyler Memorial and the great communities of Wyoming County.”

Tyler Memorial, Mercy consider merging- TimesLeader.com

Tyler and Mercy Hospitals ponder merger- The Times-Tribune.com

Heather Ramey, Tunkhannock, June EOM

July 6, 2009

Heather Ramey, the Tyler Memorial Hospital June Employee of the Month is the calm in the midst of the OR storm. In the fast-paced, often hectic world of surgery, Ms. Ramey describes her role as the air traffic controller of the OR.

The important job of Operating Room Ward Clerk includes answering the phones, maintaining the OR schedule, staying in contact with the doctors, running errands, anticipating everyone’s needs and paying attention to all the little details that combine to create an efficient department.

“I am basically the OR’s lifeline to the outside world,” the four-year Tyler employee explained. “Whatever is needed – that’s what I do.” The high stress environment of the OR is a stark contrast to the laid back atmosphere which surrounds massage therapy, Ms. Ramey’s previous profession. “I have both Type A and Type B personality traits,” the certified massage therapist quipped. “I guess you could say I’m a Type C.”

Nominated multiple times for Employee of the Month, Ms. Ramey is described as possessing excellent customer service skills, competent and accurate in her work and an employee who goes beyond her official duties – especially in customer service areas.

“I have learned so much and know that I am truly blessed to be here with these wonderful people, who, no matter how stressful things are, always work together as a team to get the job done,” she emphasized.

The daughter of Karen Ramey, RN, a former Tyler ICU nurse, Ms. Ramey was born at Tyler and grew up surrounded by the medical community. Her aunt is Peggy Rogers, OR supervisor.

According to Ms. Ramey, when she first started this job, her desk was covered in Post –It notes. “There were so many details to remember and everything moved so quickly, I was frightened I would forget something,” she recalled. Now, with the routine firmly in control, she can anticipate the smallest needs of the surgeons and is prepared for just about anything. “I know that one doctor likes big paperclips for his notes and two surgeons never have pens with them – so I always have extras on hand,” she said.

Peg Rogers, OR supervisor, described Heather as professional and extremely efficient. “Heather improved different aspects of the record keeping and is always agreeable when asked to take on additional work,” Ms. Rogers said... “Her devotion to the patients and her interest in the medical field has been refreshing to the entire OR staff.”

Along the way, the 27 year-old, Tunkhannock native learned a lot about herself and gained greater self confidence. “I learned how to stand up for myself with the physicians and I think I grew a little with each experience - especially when I was wrong,” she added.

This enhanced self confidence has helped renew a long-delayed dream of becoming a chiropractor. Currently a part-time student at LCC, Ms. Ramey is leaving Tyler and hoping to attend Keystone College’s pre chiropractic program. This will be followed by another three years at the New York College of Chiropractics - and finally, a career back home as a chiropractor.

In her free time she enjoys spending time with family and friends, reading, (preferably a book that also teaches her something new) watching movies – and new this year, container gardening. She lives in Tunkhannock with her two gloriously overweight cats and her boyfriend, Chuck Keihl.

Tyler selects Employee and Manager of the Year

May 09, 2009

Marsha Shaw, pharmacy manager, was selected as the Tyler Memorial Hospital 2009 Manager of the Year. Pamela Shields, medical staff coordinator and administrative assistant to the president. was chosen as Employee of the Year.

In a letter of nomination received for Ms. Shaw, the 1990 University of Pittsburgh graduate was described as “a very dedicated manager who provides excellent customer service to patients and staff. She always wears a smile and is willing to help with any project.” A second nomination listed her attributes as: “always accessible for questions; knowledgeable; manages a stressful job with grace and class; maintains a balance of professionalism and small town courtesy.”

Ms. Shaw, who has been employed at Tyler for three years, coordinated the installation of the hospital’s Pyxis system – an automated process for dispensing patient medications. The project, which took 18 months to implement, is designed to reduce drug errors and prevent diversion. In addition to her departmental responsibilities, Ms. Shaw also serves on the Patient Safety, Infection Control and Emergency Operations Committees of the hospital.

A graduate of Tunkhannock High School graduate, Ms. Shaw was born in Philadelphia, and raised in Wyoming County. She lives in Tunkhannock with her three children, Jackson, 16 and twin, 14-year-old daughters, Morgan and Mackenzie.

Pamela Shields, the January Employee of the Month, came to Tyler nine years ago. She is a 1990 graduate of Hanover Area High School and holds two associate degrees from Luzerne Community College: one in Human Services and the second in Business Administration.

Her responsibilities include clerical and administrative support for Tyler’s President and CEO, Denise Gieski, as well as for the hospital’s Medical Staff and the Tyler Board of Directors. She serves on the Credentials Committee, which, as she describes it: “makes sure the docs are who they say they are and can provide the services Tyler needs and wants.”

In addition to her official duties, Ms. Shields serves on the Employee Activities Committee, chairs hospital blood drives, oversees the Toys for Tots collection at Tyler each year and organizes recreational tours. She lives in Springville with her husband, Eric and five-year-old son, Zachary. Both Ms. Shaw and Ms. Shields received a $1,000 award.

Dave YoheJuly Employee of the Month

August 12, 2009

Want a good laugh? Spend a few minutes with Dave Yohe, the Tyler Memorial Hospital July Employee of the Month. Dave, who works in Maintenance, came to Tyler in 2007 after almost two decades as the caretaker for Camp Archibald, Brooklyn.

“It is a delightful place,” Dave said of the camp. God’s thumbprint is definitely on that part of the world.” The Ohio native described his job there succinctly as: “If it broke. – I fixed it.” Here at Tyler, his job has changed very little; he fixes things – especially things involving the sewage treatment plant and plumbing. The surprise is that he usually seems to be having fun while doing it.

But maintaining a positive attitude isn’t the only interesting thing about Dave. How about that he graduated from Baptist Bible College and studied to be a minister.

After graduation, Dave felt that a life in the ministry really was not for him and he took a job at Camp Archibald. He and his wife, Jane, married now for 34 years, settled down in Montrose and raised their three daughters, Angela, 27; Michelle, 25 and Bethany, 23. But life is full of surprises and eight years ago, just as the girls, who were all home-schooled, were just about grown up, Jane and Dave were blessed with a fourth daughter, Kaitlyn, 8.

Dave, now a grandfather of three, points to the raising of his four daughters as the proudest accomplishment of his life. “It’s been a long road,” he said. “I do what I can do and I try to keep God as the chief motivating factor of my life.”

In the eyes of some, even though Dave did not become a pastor, he is still ministering to others. Diane Grasso, who nominated Dave, cites the positive influence that Dave has had on her son, Joe, who is working at Tyler this summer. “Dave has been unbelievably kind and patient with Joe and has taught him valuable lessons about commitment and responsibility. Dave has the admiration and respect of my whole family,” she wrote.

When asked how he felt about Tyler, Dave noted that Tyler is a wonderful place to work and that everyone here is very serious about getting sick people well. “I don’t think patients care as much about what you know as they do in knowing that you care,” he said. “People here really care.”

What’s ahead for Dave? Well a perfect retirement for Dave would include owning a little gun shop in the mountains where he could indulge his life-long passion for guns. “Since I was a kid, I have always been fascinated by guns,” he said. “I like to hunt with them, repair them and make them work better.” His family, a little gun shop, church and a good laugh now and again – now that does sound heavenly.

Dave received $100, a Tyler umbrella and use of the Employee of the Month parking space. He is eligible to be named Employee of the Year next spring.

My New Weigh of Life

September 9, 2009

Tyler Memorial Hospital and Penn State Cooperative Extension offer a proven weight management program in Tunkhannock.

Weight, health, diet and exercise are hot topics. Are you looking for a safe, sensible and lasting way to combine these elements and lose weight? Are you frustrated with yoyo dieting, gimmicks and expensive, weight loss programs?

If so, please join staff from Penn State Extension and Tyler Memorial Hospital on October 1, from 10 a.m. to 12 noon and take the first step toward a permanent, healthy lifestyle change and the end of diet sabotage.

In this ten week program, which meets for two hours each week, you will learn:

What foods make you feel full longer
How to eat more food, but fewer calories
How to break free from the starve-binge cycle
How to deal with emotional triggers to overeating
How to fit eating out, social events, and fast food into your life
Learn how to prepare quick and healthy meals with no food restrictions.
Learn easy exercises that will fit into your daily schedule.

Come with any additional questions or concerns you may have. Most importantly, make that commitment for yourself and your health.

My New Weigh of Life classes will be held at Tyler Memorial Hospital in the Blue Room on Thursday’s from 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 noon beginning on October 1 and running through December 10. The cost is only $75.00 for the ten week program and includes all materials and supplies. The instructors, Karen Bracey, Penn State Extension and Sherry Sprague, Tyler Memorial Hospital create a caring and supportive environment and are committed to helping you succeed in your weight management goals.

To register or for more information, contact the Cooperative Extension Office at 836-3196. Registration brochures are also available at Tyler or the Cooperative Extension Office.

My New Weigh of Life has gained a positive reputation since the popular course was first developed 15 years ago. Many Pennsylvanians have made life style changes that have improved their health and well-being.

One participant said: “I liked the emphasis on nutrition; the program really helped me to focus more on changing the habits and behaviors that got me here and less on the numbers on my scale.”

Join My New Weigh of Life and make a commitment to become a healthier and trimmer you. My New Weigh of Life is an individualized, active, and informative approach to weight management.

Tyler Memorial Hospital Recruiting Lay Chaplains

August 5, 2009

New training class begins this autumn

Tyler Memorial Hospital Lay Chaplain Visitor Program is recruiting persons interested in serving as lay chaplain visitors at the hospital. A five week training program is scheduled to begin in October.

Lay chaplain visitors provide spiritual and emotional support to patients and family. They offer a friendly, unhurried, non judgmental ear to patients and families experiencing the challenges of illness and injury. “We offer love first and foremost,”explained Gladys G. Bernet, director of chaplaincy services. “When you are a patient, everyone coming into your room wants something - blood, information, a test etc. Our visitors don’t want anything; they just want to offer whatever support the patient and family needs,” she said.

Often patients want to discuss their fears or hopes about their illness. Other times they just want to show you pictures of their grandchildren or talk about the weather. Whatever the subject, the lay chaplain visitors are ready to listen. Sometimes few words are spoken and a visitor just sits quietly and holds a patient’s hand.

The chaplaincy program, which has been serving Tyler patients for 13 years, does not promote any specific religion. “Our goal is to offer support to patients and families during the hospitalization and to help people reconnect with their own spiritual resources. In addition to serving Tyler's patients, the Chaplaincy Committee also ministers to the needs of Tyler employees by providing special events throughout the year such as a Christmas Tea and a Doughnut Day during Hospital Week in May.

Candidates should be able to devote at least three hours of service, twice a month and have the endorsement and support of their own clergy. A lay chaplain visitor must be a good listener, have a sincere interest in helping others and be able to put his or her own concerns aside for a few hours and concentrate on the needs of others.

Training covers; the importance of confidentiality in a healthcare environment; infection control; active listening; coping with chronic and acute illness; medical terminology; stages of dying; bereavement education and support; praying with others and much more.

The Tyler Lay Chaplaincy Program is a joint effort of the Tyler Chaplaincy Committee, a group of clergy and lay persons representing area faith communities and Tyler Memorial Hospital. For more information or an application, please contact Gladys Bernet at 996.1301 .

Tyler Physicians Empower the Next Generation of Healthcare Providers

July 10, 2009

Eight young women, aspiring to careers in healthcare, were recently awarded $500 scholarships by the Medical Staff of Tyler Memorial Hospital and the Wyoming County Medical Society.

Dr. Christopher Andres, president of the Tyler Medical Staff, awarded scholarships to Christine Pesotine, Meshoppen; Anita Konopatski, Springville and Holly Valvano, Tunkhannock. Angel Cussins, Laceyville, also received a scholarship, but was absent for the awards ceremony. Four scholarships were awarded on behalf of the Wyoming County Medical Society by Dr. Andres to Abbey Zurad, Shavertown; Lauren Razawich, Tunkhannock; and Erica Drake, Scranton. Kristen McIntyre, Waverly, also a recipient was not present.

Dr. Andres congratulated the recipients, who are working in healthcare or are planning careers in healthcare. “You have chosen a challenging profession and I congratulate and commend you all,” he said. “We hope you continue to practice your professions here at Tyler.”

November Employee of the Month

January 24, 2010

Deb Prebola

December Employee of the Month

January 24, 2010

A pleasant smile, a cheerful “hello” and a positive attitude is what the co-workers of Susan Huff, EKG technician, at Mercy Tyler Hospital, Tunkhannock, associate with the December Employee of the Month.
Born in Tunkhannock and raised in Springville, this whirling dervish of energy came to Tyler Memorial Hospital in 1999 after trying her hand at cosmetology and retail management. “I wanted a change and more for myself and my children,” the mother of three recalled.
Ms. Huff, with the support of her, then fiancée and now husband, Terry, enrolled in an intensive, nine-month medical assistant program. She did a brief Externship Program through Tyler’s Human Resources Department and was soon hired as a full-time, EKG technician.
“I love my work; it’s great. I like people,” she said. “I could never have a job where I had to sit behind a desk all day and do paperwork.” A former co-worker, who nominated her, said that Ms. Huff was long overdue for recognition of her excellent customer service skills.
Ms. Huff’s day usually begins with conducting stress tests with either Dr. Samir Pancholy, Dr. Daniel Silverstein or Dr. David Rimple. “They are wonderful physicians and I really enjoy working with each of them,” she added. The rest of the day is filled with Holter monitor scans, cardiograms and scheduling.
In addition to her full-time duties, Ms. Huff also does part-time, on-call work for Mercy Tyler’s OCCUCare Department doing post-accident and reasonable suspicion drug testing. In her free time, she enjoys trout fishing at Quaker Lake and hunting. This past season, she got a deer.
The Mercy Tyler Employee of the Month receives $100, a preferred parking space and the opportunity to be named Employee of the Year in April.

September Employee of the Month

October 5, 2009

Yogi Berra, that sage, baseball philosopher offered this advice: “When you come to a fork in the road – take it.” Jud Vieczorek, RN, Tyler September Employee of the Month prepared long and hard for a career in the ministry, but when he came to a fork in the road he chose a path that led him to a different kind of service.

The Tunkhannock native and the youngest of six children, attended Christ for the Nations Institute in Dallas, Texas studying Applied Theology, earned a BA in Religious Studies from Southern California College and was awarded an MA in Theology from Wheaton College in Illinois. While at Wheaton, Jud spent six months in Israel, Egypt and Greece studying archeology and the culture of the Mid East.

After completing his studies, Jud felt he was being called to serve outside the church and took a position as a counselor with Step By Step, a non profit agency serving children and adults with mental illness, intellectual disabilities and autism. After eight years, Jud embarked on a nursing career and graduated from Luzerne Community College in 1992. He came to Tyler soon after and, except for a one year detour to CMC, has been caring for patients on Tyler’s Med/Surg unit for seven years and for the last ten years, in the ICU.

“Jud is always helping out by taking extra shifts when we are short-staffed,” said Gerri Zionkowski, ICU nurse manager. “He establishes a great rapport with our patients and we often have patients come back to see him and thank him for his care and kindness,” she added. “Jud is a real patient advocate.”

Nominated as Employee of the Month by his co-worker, Charlotte Gaus, RN, Charlotte wrote of Jud that he excels at making families at ease while their loved ones are in the hospital. “He always has a smile and a kind word and is willing to help anyone, no matter what the task may be,” Charlotte said.

“The people at Tyler are phenomenal,” Jud said when asked what he liked about his work. “Tyler is a wonderful place; if you need help or tragedy hits, the support is overwhelming. There really is no place like Tyler,” he emphasized. In his spare time, Jud enjoys being at home with family and friends and is an avid gardener.

The Tyler Employee of the Month receives $100, a preferred parking space and is eligible to be named Employee of the Year.

October Employee of the Month

November 5, 2009

Nikki Traver, 24 is the Tyler Memorial Hospital October Employee of the Month. The second of four children, Ms. Traver was born at Tyler, grew up in Meshoppen and graduated from Elk Lake School in 2004. She joined the Tyler staff as a switchboard operator soon after.

As the operator, Ms. Traver must efficiently handle six regular phone lines plus the emergency 111 line. “It’s hard sometimes trying to juggle everyone and remember who is on what line and still be able to take care of anyone who needs my help,“ she said. “But I really love my job and all the people I meet and work with.“

In addition to the phones, Nikki organizes the hospital’s outgoing mail. “I have a special system,“ she joked. “I like everything neat and in order.“ She receives in-person, bill payments, guest meal tray orders and helps with Quick Registration when needed. Always looking for a way to do more, Nikki also helps write patient discharge letters and does some billing work as time allows.

In nominating Ms. Traver, Pamela Shields, administration, pointed to Nikki’s excellent customer service skills, willingness to help and sunny disposition as her special qualities.

In her spare time, Nikki enjoys spending time with boyfriend, Jeff Howell, a Tyler paramedic, and with her family, who live close by. She enjoys reading Nora Roberts and recently completed the Twilight series. “I enjoy all kinds of reading, but nothing violent,“ she added.

Very sensitive and empathetic by nature, Nikki’s original dream of becoming a nurse was put on hold because it was too difficult for her to witness the pain and suffering of others. “I really would still love to be a nurse,“ she said. “I think I could handle those challenges a little better now,“ she said. Becoming a teacher is also a possibility.

The EOM receives $100, a preferred parking space and an opportunity to be named Employee of the Year.

Tyler Re-launches Capital Campaign

November 24, 2009

Here is a donor letter you can use to help.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT: Gladys G. Bernet 996.1301

The Tyler Memorial Hospital Capital Campaign to build a new emergency department is off hold and moving full speed ahead, according to Tyler President and CEO, Denise Gieski.

Now that we have a clear road map for our future with Mercy Health Partners, (MHP) we have re-launched the campaign to complete this much needed project, she announced.

Tyler and MHP announced earlier this month that both organizations have officially endorsed the new relationship, and that, as of January 1, 2010, Tyler Memorial Hospital will become Mercy Tyler, a member hospital of MHP, Scranton, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Catholic Health Partners, (CHP), one of the largest, not-for-profit, multi-hospital systems in the United States. CHP is headquartered in Cincinnati, Ohio.

The updated project includes an expanded emergency department designed to meet the growing health demands of a rapidly-changing community. We need more space, a more efficient layout and updated equipment, Ms. Gieski said.

The original project was put on hiatus last spring when Tyler entered into affiliation talks with MHP. We really didn't think it was fair to the community to be out there asking for money when we weren t absolutely certain what the future held for Tyler, Ms. Gieski added. Now, we are very excited about our future and want to move this project to the front burner. The revitalized campaign has a goal of four to six million dollars. Right now we are focusing solely on the Emergency Department, explained Tyler Board President, Mark Mitchell. That is the most urgent need. Next, we will turn our attention to other areas of the facility that need updating, he said. And as MHP becomes more involved in this project, they will add their own ideas and many years of construction and facility renovation to the process, he added.

According to Minturn Smith, who is coordinating the campaign for the hospital, at year end, many families and individuals complete their charitable giving for the year and make financial plans for the year ahead.

We hope people recognize the important role Tyler plays, not only in creating a healthier community, but also the hospital s contribution to the overall quality of life of the region, Mr. Smith emphasized. We are asking the community join with us in creating a better, healthier and safer community for us all by contributing now and including us in their 2010 plans, he said. A community-wide mailing explaining the campaign and outlining the giving opportunities will be arriving in mailboxes next week. We ask that individuals take a few minutes to review the materials, consider the important role Tyler plays in their lives and respond generously, he said. Pledge cards may be downloaded from the Tyler website: www.tylerhospital.com and donations may be made by credit card.

We are very excited about Tyler s future, Mr. Mitchell noted. I hope the entire community catches the hospital s spirit of a renewed era of service and mission to our community.

For further information about the campaign or to arrange a personal meeting with a member of the campaign team, please contact Minturn Smith at 996.1645.

Mercy Tyler Hospital

Wyoming County, Pennsylvania’s Full-Service Healthcare Facility